When you're riding down a wide-open road on your motorcycle, the last thing you want is your phone or GPS going through the air—or, worse, off the bike. If you're using it for navigation, taking photos of your ride, or listening to tunes, a good mount is more than a nice thing to have—it's a necessity. That's where motorcycle handlebar mounts come into play.
But there's a decision you have to make: universal or custom-fit?
Both types claim to get the job done, but they do it in very different ways. Some riders require something simple and fast, while others require something that is tailored to their bike. In this article, we will address the pros and cons of each, inform you of which one can be a tailor-made fit for your ride, and help you make an astute decision, especially if your mount needs to be long-lasting.
Let us begin with learning the fundamentals.
What Are Motorcycle Handlebar Mounts Used For?
If you don't know much about motorcycle accessories, motorcycle handlebar mounts are small devices that clamp over your handlebars and hold things like phones, GPS, action cameras, or other accessories.
Why would you want them? Because when you're on the bike, you don't want your hands full, and your mind on anything other than the road. That leaves you unable to be rummaging around in your pocket for directions or fumbling for your phone at a red light. A handlebar mount places your device in a spot where you can glance at it, without your eyes too far removed from the road.
● Rough-riding riders utilize them to:
● Follow the GPS instructions
● Use a GoPro to film their rides.
● Traffic or weather phone apps
● Stream. Audio or make calls (with Bluetooth equipment)
● Stay connected on long road trips.
Now that we know what they are, let's examine the two most common types—universal and custom-fit. Both have their pros and cons.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Universal Motorcycle Handlebar Mounts
So, what is a universal mount? It is a mount that has been made to accommodate a huge range of motorcycle handlebars, usually with changeable clamps or adjustable straps. It is rather like one-size-fits-all.
But is "universal" always best? Let's find out.
Benefits of Universal Mounts
Universal handlebar mounts are popular among individuals with over one bike or who simply prefer something simple to use immediately out of the box.
Which is why riders like them:
● Fit most bikes: Whether you ride a cruiser, sportbike, or adventure bike, a universal mount will likely fit the handlebars of your bike.
● Affordable: Universal mounts are less expensive than custom-fit mounts.
● Simple installation: No checks for compatibility or reading of any special bicycle instructions.
● Convenient to transport: When you have over one bike, you can interchange the mount within minutes.
Drawbacks to Consider
Of course, universal doesn't mean perfect.
Here's what to watch out for:
● Perfect fit is not always possible: You might need spacers or to tighten it more to fit perfectly.
● Excess vibration: Since the fit is not tailored, your device will vibrate harder on rides.
● Bulk appearance: Some of the mounts project more or look awkward on the handlebars.
● Less secure: A universal mount on uneven ground will not be held in place as tightly as a custom-fit mount.
Universal mounts are very flexible, but if you ride on rough roads or like a smoother configuration, you might need to use the other option.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Custom-Fit Motorcycle Handlebar Mounts
Motorcycle custom handlebar mounts are intended for specific handlebar shapes or motorbikes. They are built to be of the same size and shape as your motorbike, which actually makes them more stable and aesthetically pleasing.
But do they live up to the hype?
Why Some Riders Prefer a Custom Fit
If you ride a lot or if you care about the feel and appearance of your configuration, custom-fit mounts certainly have their benefits.
It is what makes them different:
● Exact fit: No twisting, slipping, or adjustment is needed. It fits your bike perfectly.
● Less vibration: Certain mounts remain stable even under high speed or on bumpy roads.
● Clean look: The patterns are usually integrated into the handlebars of the bike.
● Safer for your phone or device: Less shaking reduces the risk of your device being damaged.
Drawbacks to Be Aware Of
But personal mounts are not for everyone.
Here is what could be an advantage:
● Higher expense: Custom-fit comes with a higher cost.
● Not interchangeable: When you buy a new bike, the mount won't fit.
● More challenging to find: You'll need to search by model and manufacturer in order to find the right one.
● Less flexible: If you have to adjust where the mount is placed, you may be limited.
So, custom-fit is about stability, uncluttered design, and protection—but it is more expensive and less flexible in terms of rearranging things.
Which One Is Right for You?
Therefore, you may be wondering: "So, which one should I use?"
The answer will be based on what type of rider you are and what is most important to you.
Adventure Rider or Commuter
If you're off-roading, across long distances, or filming your adventures on video, a motorcycle handlebar mount custom-fitted to your bike might be exactly what you need. You don't want something flimsy that's going to bounce around and get in the way.
If you're only tooling around town or replacing bikes, a universal mount would be a good choice. It's cheaper, easier to replace, and adequate for smooth roads.
Looks, Budget, and Reusability
Want your equipment to appear to be bolted into your bicycle? Custom-fit is the way to go.
Want to save money and keep it simple? Go universal.
Getting a new bike or replacing it soon? Use a universal mount so you can recycle it.
Finally, the optimal choice is a matter of values: functionality over flexibility, economy over finish.
Choosing the Best Motorcycle Handlebar Mounts for Your Ride
With so many to choose from, how do you select the appropriate motorcycle handlebar mount?
Use the following short checklist to help narrow it down:
What are you installing? Phone? Camera? GPS?
● What kind of ground do you travel over? Smooth city roads or rough back roads?
● How often do you ride? Every day or just on the weekends?
● Do you own more than one bicycle?
● Do you have an issue if it looks bad on your handlebars?
Once you've answered those, look for mounts which:
● Are made of long-lasting, weather-resistant materials
● Offer greater grip and vibration protection.
● Are easy to install and customize
● Bring along customer service or reviews that you can trust.
Here at GRxplore, we carry a selection of motorcycle handlebar mounts from flexible universal models to highly engineered custom-fit models. They are all designed for durability, safety, and day-to-day riding.
Whether you're a city commuter or an off-road enthusiast, we have something to fit your style and your bike.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all solution—unless that's exactly what you're after.
If you need a mount that is universal for the majority of bikes and is not costly, employ a universal motorcycle handlebar mount. It will do just fine for most bikers.
But if you travel extensively, cover a lot of miles, or require utmost stability and fashion, an individually fitting motorcycle handlebar mount is worth the cost.
Not sure? Don't worry. The right gear can make or break your adventure, and it's not always easy to know what to take. Otherwise, that's precisely why our GRxplore team is here to help.
Contact us anytime—you need advice, a recommendation for a product, or just a pal to shoot the breeze about gears. We're glad to hear about your bike and your next adventure ride.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a motorcycle handlebar mount for?
A handlebar mount for a motorcycle keeps devices like phones, GPS units, or action cameras securely in position on your handlebars within driving reach.
2. Are motorcycle handlebar mounts universal?
Some are! Some universal mounts are designed to fit most handlebar diameters, and some are designed to fit a specific motorcycle model only.
3. How do I know whether or not a handlebar mount will fit my motorcycle?
Check your handlebar shape and diameter, and match it to the mount specifications. Universal mounts are adjustable fits, but model-specific mounts are custom-fits.
4. Are improved custom-fit motorcycle handlebar mounts available?
Custom-fit mounts offer a closer, tighter fit with less vibration, but are more expensive and less adaptable than universal ones.
5. Can I use a handlebar mount on a motorcycle off-road?
Yes, but the custom-fit mount is generally better on rough ground because it has a firmer hold and less vibration.
6. What are the best materials for motorcycle handlebar mounts?
Search for aluminum, reinforced plastic, or rubberized mounts for durability and resistance to weather.
7. Will a universal mount damage my handlebars?
Most quality universal mounts employ padded or rubber grips to avoid scratching. Mount with care at all times and do not over-tighten.
8. Can I fit a motorcycle handlebar mount myself?
Yes, the majority of mounts are self-install and include basic tools or instructions.
9. How can I reduce vibration on a handlebar mount?
Select a mount with vibration-dampening characteristics or employ a custom-fit mount to ensure a stronger attachment.
10. Where are there quality motorcycle handlebar mounts to buy?
There are various durable and reliable mounts available at GRxplore for every kind of rider and bike.
